LIVING SAFE: Giving of yourself the most valuable gift of all

Published 10:00 pm, Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Thanksgiving is barely over when the shopping frenzy begins. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are trusted not only to stimulate the economy, but to provide an end-of-year boost to sales. Items ranging from the smallest of stocking stuffers to the largest of luxury goods become the sought after “perfect gift” for the special persons in our lives.

Are there intangible gifts that might be just as meaningful? Are there gifts that we can give without visiting a mall or going online?

Time

Your time is by far the most valuable gift that you could ever give. It will also be the most appreciated gift when received.

It was trendy years ago to give homemade gift cards, promising an hour of household chores, babysitting, or other time consuming tasks. These are still great ideas, and likely to be deeply appreciated.

Give of your time in a way that it will be most appreciated. Tailor a gift of your time to the recipient. Make it specific to their needs for the greatest impact. It will be appreciated not only because you are willing to help, but because you know what will make a difference.

Pep Talks

Consider the gift of your time in another way. Do you know someone who is suffering a loss or a personal disappointment? Are you aware that a friend is down in the dumps? Give them the gift of a pep talk.

Be sincere. Tell the gift recipient that you are there to listen. Hear their concerns and let them know that they are not alone.

Then, encourage them. Assure them that you recognize the positive qualities that they possess. Most of all, be clear that you are a friend that they can count on.

A conversation is a gift. Your undivided attention is a gift. The gift of a pep talk will last far longer than any item that could be bought in any store.

Charity Benefit

Often, we think that a charitable gift means a financial contribution. Though monetary support is always appreciated, there are actually alternative ways that you could give an intangible gift through a nonprofit organization this season.

First, volunteer. Similar to the gift of time mentioned above, your gift will not be to an individual but to an organization or cause. Volunteer at a charitable event, and you will be an extra set of hands that works toward a laudable goal.

Second, publicize. Spread the word. Talk up the nonprofit organization to your friends. Explain why the nonprofit is worthwhile, and why you endorse and approve of it. The gift of publicity will give back to your favorite charity tenfold.

This year, as you do your part to support the economy during the holiday season, consider making intangible gifts that will count even more. Your time, attention, and commendation will be the most cherished gifts of all.

Katherine Cabaniss is the Judge in the 248th District Court in Harris County. She was formerly a prosecutor and Executive Director of Crime Stoppers. Contact her at cabanissk@yahoo.com.